A disabled woman in her 50s was hospitalised after being assaulted in the early hours of this morning in South Belfast.

At around 6am, a man entered a house on Beit Street before threatening and assaulting the woman.

He left the house and fled on a bicycle along the rear alleyway.

A police spokesman said: "He was described as being around 6’ tall with short dark hair and was wearing a white hooded top."

The woman, aged in her 50s and registered disabled, was taken to hospital for treatment for facial injuries and shock.

Detective Sergeant McNally continued: “This was a disgraceful attack on a vulnerable person and I would urge anyone who saw a man matching this description in the area or who has any information about this incident to come forward and give that information to detectives at Musgrave on 101.

"Information can also be given anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”